So, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, but will a two-night “Mary Poppins” retrospective cure what ails the network ratings? ABC is betting on it, rolling out the red carpet—or perhaps a magic carpet bag?—for a 60th-anniversary celebration of the practically perfect nanny. This isn’t just a re-airing of the classic film; it’s a full-blown extravaganza designed to pull at those nostalgic heartstrings while hopefully snagging a few new viewers along the way.
Kicking things off on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at 9:00 p.m. EST is “The Untold Story of Mary Poppins: A Special Edition of 20/20.” This documentary digs into the making of the film, promising rare footage, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and interviews with a mix of familiar faces. Expect appearances by Dick Van Dyke, still charming after all these years, alongside Josh Gad, John Stamos, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and even Walt Disney’s grandchildren. Notably, Julie Andrews, the original Mary Poppins herself, is also slated to appear, adding a touch of genuine magic to the proceedings.
There’s also a cherry on top of this already-sweet sundae. The special will feature the debut of “The Last Verse,” a newly composed addition to “It’s a Small World.” This final Disney contribution from the legendary Richard Sherman adds a bittersweet element to the festivities, reminding us of the enduring legacy of the Sherman Brothers’ music. And for those who can’t get enough of the classic tunes, the documentary will also present demos of the original songs, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind the film’s iconic soundtrack.
Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. EST brings the main event: a broadcast of the original “Mary Poppins.” For the Gen Z crowd unfamiliar with chimney sweeps and magical nannies, this is your chance to experience the film that defined a generation. For the rest of us, it’s an opportunity to revisit a cherished classic and perhaps introduce our own children to the whimsical world of Mary Poppins.
ABC is clearly pulling out all the stops, even enlisting “Good Morning America” to get in on the action. Expect a sneak peek of the documentary on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, followed by a special performance by Broadway’s original Mary Poppins, Ashley Brown, on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. For those who miss the live broadcasts, the 20/20 special will be available on Hulu and Disney+ the following day.
The combination of nostalgia, new content, and a healthy dose of Disney magic might just be the right formula to draw in viewers of all ages. It’s a celebration of a timeless classic, and that’s something even a grumpy critic can appreciate.
“The Untold Story of Mary Poppins: A Special Edition of 20/20” airs Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at 9 p.m. EST, followed by “Mary Poppins” on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 8 p.m. EST, both on ABC.
